We are in Croatia!

Trulli Houses of Southern Italy


The Ruins at Pompei


The Beautiful Amalfi Coast

Our last few days in Southern Italy were spent driving the very scary, curvy, narrow and utterly beautiful Amalfi coast. After reaching Amalfi, we had lemonade in the small town square and toured the cathedral where Saint Andrews bones are burried. Then it was over the mountain and down to Naples and the ruins of Pompei.

Pompei was a thriving seaport of about 20,000 people when Mt. Visuvius erupted in 79 A.D. and completely buried the city in volcanic ash. It was uncovered and much of it is intact. We saw the ampitheatre where the gladiators fought, the forum or seat of business and social activity and many, many homes and shops. It was very fascinating.

From there we drove inland, spent the night and reached the east coast of Italy south of Bari. The Trulli houses, which we call cone head houses, still are homes and shops to local people. This is the only place on earth this style of house exists.

Spent the night in Bari, with one more day left before our overnight ferry ride to Croatia. Dropped off our laundry at a lavanderia for a mere $45 euro charge, but at least we have clean clothes. Toured a castle built in the 13th century and had a great lunch near the port of Trani while watching fishermen arrive with their catch.

After dropping off the rental car, we took a taxi to the ferry dock and met up with the Dafoes, who had just arrived via train from Venice. The overnight ferry was smooth and we had a cabin with bunkbeds, so at least got some sleep. While checking into our hotel, the Romeleys appeared. So now all we lack are Carol and Phil.

Off to tour Dubrovnik!